Rheumatology is a medical specialty that diagnoses and treats inflammatory and autoimmune disorders that often cause musculoskeletal symptoms. A rheumatologist is an internal medicine doctor specializing in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and musculoskeletal pain.

Rheumatologists treat various conditions, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Lupus
• Fibromyalgia
• Gout

These are in addition to the other autoimmune and inflammatory disorders affecting the joints, muscles, and bones.

Rheumatologists specialize in conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and primary care physicians, to provide comprehensive care. Although orthopedists and rheumatologists treat many of the same conditions, rheumatologists are experts in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases who consider every organ system when evaluating your symptoms. Orthopedists focus on acute injuries, congenital diseases, and degenerative conditions. Orthopedists may perform surgery, but rheumatologists do not.

Patients are typically referred to a rheumatologist by their primary care team or by another specialist. Consult a rheumatologist if you have persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or other symptoms related to the musculoskeletal system, especially if you have a family history of rheumatic or autoimmune disease. If you are experiencing symptoms now, don’t hesitate; receiving care in earlier stages lowers your risk.

Diagnosing rheumatic conditions may require blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, ultrasound), and joint aspiration. These tests help rheumatologists evaluate inflammation levels, detect specific antibodies, and assess the condition of joints and tissues.

If your insurance does not provide proper coverage or denies an authorization, your doctor will determine the next steps to take and will work with you.

Treatment aims to limit pain and inflammation while preserving and improving joint function. Treatment may involve medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Rheumatologists work closely with their patients to manage symptoms, control inflammation, and improve overall quality of life.

Yes, lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and ample rest complement medical treatment and improve overall well-being for people with rheumatic conditions.

Appointment frequency varies based on the specific condition and its severity. During diagnostic and early treatment phases, patients may need to be seen more frequently. Follow-up visits are likely to be less frequent as the condition stabilizes.

Some rheumatic conditions can be cured, or treated to a state of remission.  Many rheumatic conditions can be effectively controlled but require chronic treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical factors in achieving positive outcomes.

While not all rheumatic conditions are preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying physically active, and managing known underlying health conditions can contribute to overall joint and musculoskeletal health.

Living with a rheumatic condition is a long-term commitment both to managing the disease and to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. That commitment – and your experience as a patient – is made easier with a holistic understanding of not only the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological dimensions of living with a chronic condition.